The Hong Kong flower show 香港花卉展 2018

A beautiful film ... The LongSheng (Dragon's Backbone) rice terraces 龙胜梯田 cover an area of around 65 square kilometers (about 16,000 acres) in GuangXi province. Construction of the terraces began during the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368), most extensively around 500 years ago during the Ming dynasty, and continues today. The rice terraces stand as testament to the wisdom and strength of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities who form the majority of the locals here. LongJi (the Dragon's Backbone) Mountain is located in LongSheng County, about 100 km (2 hours drive) from GuiLin. The most famous of the rice terrace areas here are the Ping'An and JinKeng rice terraces. The terraced fields are constructed from riversides up to the mountain tops, at elevations of 300 meters (1,000 feet) to 1,100 meters (3,600 feet). A typical incline is 30 to 35 degrees. This area is also noted for its LongJi tea and wine. Best time to visit : May to mid-October (ideally, June to September).

With Ben Norton ... With Radhika Desai and Michael Hudson ... With Jan Oberg ...

By a foreign exchange student. Excellent cinematography. Filmed in 2012 - 2013 ...

With Beijing Old Liu ... Goose Spring (Equan) Visitor Guide - GuangXi Overview Goose Spring, also known as Equan, is a renowned scenic spot in GuangXi Province, China. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and serene environment, Goose Spring offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Getting There Location: Bama Yao Autonomous County, HeChi City, GuangXi Province, China. Public Transport: By Bus: There are regular buses from HeChi City to Bama Yao Autonomous County. From there, local transportation options such as taxis can take you to Goose Spring. By Train: The nearest major railway station is in HeChi City. From the station, you can take a bus or taxi to the scenic area. Opening Hours Daily: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Tickets Entrance Fee: ¥60 Discounted Ticket (for children, students, and seniors): ¥30 Main Attractions Goose Spring offers several attractions for visitors to explore: Goose Spring (Equan): The main feature, this spring is known for its exceptionally clear water and beautiful surroundings. Equan Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall located near the spring, providing a stunning backdrop for photos. Scenic Walking Trails: Various trails around the spring offer opportunities for leisurely walks and enjoying the natural beauty. Lush Forests: The area is surrounded by dense forests, home to diverse flora and fauna. Observation Decks: Several decks offer panoramic views of the scenic area, perfect for photography and relaxation. Activities Visitors can engage in a variety of activities at Goose Spring: Hiking: Explore the trails that wind through the scenic area and enjoy the beautiful natural environment. Bird Watching: The area is home to many bird species, making it ideal for bird watchers. Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and serene environment. Relaxing by the Spring: Spend time relaxing by the clear waters of the spring and soaking in the tranquility. Picnicking: There are designated areas for picnics, where visitors can enjoy a meal amidst nature. Dining and Refreshments Several small restaurants and snack stalls are available around Goose Spring, offering local GuangXi cuisine and refreshments. It's also a good idea to bring your own snacks and water. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot, and winter can be cold. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The scenic area has many trails, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking. Prepare for Weather: Bring a raincoat or umbrella during the rainy season, and dress in layers for temperature changes. Respect Nature: Follow park rules, stay on designated paths, and do not disturb the wildlife. Nearby Attractions Baimo Cave: A fascinating karst cave with unique rock formations and underground rivers, located in Bama Yao Autonomous County. Baimang River: A beautiful river known for its clear waters and picturesque surroundings, ideal for boating and sightseeing. Longevity Village: A village famous for the longevity of its residents, offering insights into local culture and lifestyle. Conclusion Goose Spring (Equan) in GuangXi is a tranquil and beautiful destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, serene environment, and cultural experiences. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Goose Spring provides an unforgettable experience.

Bonus film - QingDao (a port city south east of BeiJing) ... Bonus film 2 - TianJin (a port city a little to the east of BeiJing) at Christmas ... Bonus film 3 - MiuMiu Guitar girl ...

With Lulu's Daily In China ... Humble Administrator's Garden Visitor Guide Overview The Humble Administrator's Garden, located in SuZhou, JiangSu province, is one of the most famous classical gardens in China. Built in the early 16th century during the Ming Dynasty, this garden is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, featuring beautiful pavilions, serene ponds, lush greenery, and exquisite rock formations. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Chinese garden art. History The garden was originally created by Wang XianChen, a retired government official, who sought to design a peaceful retreat for himself. Over the centuries, the garden changed hands multiple times, undergoing various renovations and expansions. Despite these changes, the garden has retained its original layout and classical elements, reflecting the aesthetics and philosophical principles of traditional Chinese gardens. Main Attractions Central Garden The Central Garden is the heart of the Humble Administrator's Garden, featuring a large pond surrounded by lush plants, winding paths, and elegant pavilions. Key highlights include: Lotus Pavilion: A beautiful structure overlooking the pond, offering a tranquil spot to enjoy the view of blooming lotus flowers in summer. Hall of Distant Fragrance: Named after the lotus flowers whose fragrance can be smelled from afar, this hall is one of the garden's main buildings, known for its elegant design. Eastern Garden The Eastern Garden features a series of smaller ponds, rockeries, and pavilions, creating a more intimate and secluded atmosphere. Notable features include: Small Flying Rainbow Bridge: A charming stone bridge that arches gracefully over a small pond. Hall of 36 Mandarin Ducks: Named after the mandarin ducks often seen in Chinese art, this hall offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Western Garden The Western Garden is characterized by its open spaces and carefully arranged rockeries and plantings. Highlights include: Hall of the Thirty-Six Mandarin Ducks: Featuring beautiful carvings and a serene ambiance. GuanYun Peak: A striking rock formation representing a mountain peak, showcasing the garden's sophisticated use of stones. Architecture and Design The Humble Administrator's Garden exemplifies the principles of traditional Chinese garden design, which seeks to create harmony between nature and human-made structures. The garden's architecture and layout incorporate the following elements: Water Features: Ponds and streams are central to the garden's design, reflecting the sky and surrounding plants, and adding a sense of tranquility. Rockeries: Carefully arranged rocks and rock formations symbolize mountains and add a dynamic visual element to the landscape. Pavilions and Halls: These structures provide spaces for relaxation and contemplation, offering various perspectives of the garden. Plantings: A diverse array of plants, including bamboo, lotus, and seasonal flowers, enhance the garden's beauty and symbolize different virtues and qualities. Visiting Tips Best Time to Visit: The garden is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are particularly lovely when flowers are in bloom. Autumn offers stunning foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, serene atmosphere. Opening Hours: The garden is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Getting There: The garden is located in the heart of SuZhou and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. The nearest metro station is Lindun Road Station (Line 1). Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the garden's history, architecture, and cultural significance. Photography: The garden offers countless photo opportunities. Be sure to bring your camera and take your time capturing the beauty of the landscape. Respect the Environment: Help preserve the garden by not picking flowers, climbing on rocks, or littering. Respect the tranquility of the space and other visitors.

Two CGTN Travelogue episodes with Megan Zhang. Megan looks at the history and modernity of ChongQing hot pot and the modern transport links that connect together this city in the mountainous hills ...

This could save your life; at least, help you to not waste it. With Then & Now ... The end section is not so great. It is not just about 'light touch regulation' as it is for each of us to realize how we personally, are addicted, and why, and what we can do to live in a better way.